The Tennessee Titans face a challenging start to their 2024 NFL campaign, falling to 0-2 after a tough 24-17 loss to the New York Jets in Week 2. Their young quarterback, Will Levis, is already under heavy scrutiny after another performance marked by mistakes and turnovers.
Levis’ pivotal error came at a critical juncture in the game. Attempting a pass to Tyjae Spears, the ball was fumbled, providing a timely opportunity for the Jets. “He told us straight off, he's not a yeller and screamer, but he can be and there's certain situations that allow for that, and that definitely was one of those situations,” Levis said, recounting offensive coordinator Callahan's reaction in the postgame press conference. “I didn't bat an eye at it. I took the coaching.”
It's clear that Callahan didn’t hold back, labeling the decision to make the risky pass as “dumb.” But Levis, known for his risk-taking approach, wasn't surprised by the outburst. “I was yelling at myself in my head the same way he was yelling at me,” the quarterback revealed. “I know it's an emotional response that we all have after things like that. We were right back to it, and he had confidence in me on the next play taking that shot. That was cool to feel, coming back on the field after that turnover, even though we had another one after that. I don't have any problem with how he handled himself.”
Levis has not shied away from acknowledging his need for better decision-making. With three interceptions and two fumbles over the first two games of the season, his reputation for recklessness—a trait that many analysts believe contributed to his fall in the draft—has been on full display. Selected 33rd overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, he has admitted to being overly daring during his college career. “I think a lot of people, when they hear gunslinger, they think about recklessness. I definitely feel like I was a little too reckless in my college career and tried to make some throws that I would want to take back. I changed that mentality a bit in my play last year. Just realizing at the level that I was playing at where I had to be that much more careful with the ball. I was proud of how I was able to protect it a little more than I did in my college years,” Levis revealed.
Despite the early setbacks, Levis’ response to criticism reflects a maturity that could be crucial for the Titans as they aim for a playoff spot this season. “The goal for the 2024 Titans is to make a playoff run,” he stated emphatically. The young quarterback's self-reflection and willingness to admit faults indicate a player eager to grow and overcome his mistakes.
Looking ahead to Week 3, the Titans will host the Green Bay Packers. The Packers will be without their starting quarterback Jordan Love, with Malik Willis stepping in due to injury. This development could provide the Titans an edge in securing a much-needed first win of the season.
For Tennessee, the ongoing process will be about balancing the high-reward potential of Levis’ risk-taking with the necessary prudence needed at the professional level. With the team’s playoff aspirations firmly declared, both the Titans’ management and their fans will be watching how their rookie quarterback adapts and evolves under pressure.
Will Levis’ young career, marked by early struggles yet characterized by his willingness to learn, offers a mix of caution and hope for the Titans. His journey this season will be one closely followed, as the stakes only grow higher with each passing game.